Go for Gaastra Vapor, it won't let you down! It is an reliable fast sail, easy to rig, very smooth rotation.

Kevin Pritchard is using the Gaastra Vapor on Isonics
Steve Allen is using the Gaastra Vapor on Formula 162

Both not the heaviest guys...

7th February 2008 01:03 AM

geo

Hi,

here are my thoughts.

#1: top top pros use sails from the biggest lofts, but this doesn't mean those are the best designs available; plus, top pros usually are bigger and heavier than normal people; nevertheless, if they obtain good results from a sail model, this undoubtedly means that such results may be obtained from the sail;
#3: your friend might be just bragging about his sails, but don't forget that probably your fitness, body frame and requirements are much more closer to his than to those of a top pro.
And, my personal preferences are just like Ken's. My sails are TR-3 6.3 and 7.0 and I used them with a Sonic 95; only alternatives I consider are TR-4.

4th February 2008 11:17 PM

Ken

Lots of good options, kind of like choosing between Lexus, Infinity, BMW or Mercedes. Most sailors choose based upon one of the following.

1. Sails used by top pros - This is contengent upon how deep the manufacture's pockets are and how may top sailors have been bought to use their sails. Neil Pryde is usually at the top of the list, but there are other brands that are just as good or better.

2. Shop recommendations - They will push what they stock.

3. Friend's experience - how good is your friend?

4. Price - who is offering the best deal. Year end close outs are always good, but the best racing sails are produced in limited numbers and they are rarely in close outs. You have got to get your orders in early (Dec. - Feb.). Just a guess.

5. Brand loyalty - Are you a BMW man?

6. Respect for the sail designers, their experience and history.

7. What they look like - Not many racers will care about this. Function over form.

Here's the pitch - I use Maui Sails, TR-3's and TR-4's. 6.6, 7.6, 8.4, 9.2. 11.0. I haven't recieved the new TR-4's yet.

I like Maui sails and in particular Barry Spanier and Phil McGain. Are they the best sails? I don't know, but I am the #6 kind of guy.